Developers present updated plans for Emmaus Ave data center, but final approval is on hold pending legal challenge
Developers presented updated plans for a 75-megawatt data center in South Allentown, identifying Keel Infrastructure as the future operator. Final approval for the project by the Allentown Planning Commission is on hold due to a pending legal challenge from a local nonprofit seeking to overturn a previous zoning decision. Residents continue to express concerns regarding noise and environmental impacts.
Developers for a proposed 250,000-square-foot, 75-megawatt data center at 2401 Emmaus Ave. in South Allentown, Pennsylvania, presented updated plans to the Allentown Planning Commission. The applicants, Quantm Group LLC, announced that Keel Infrastructure, a New York City data center company, would operate the facility, which would employ approximately 66 people.
The updated proposal addresses previous concerns from the city's planning department regarding job creation, land efficiency, and compatibility with residential uses. Changes include relocating a PPL substation, constructing a sound attenuation wall to mitigate noise, and offering legally binding restrictive covenants on noise and pollution. Developers, including Quantm co-founder Anthony Maras, argued the data center would generate approximately $4 million in annual tax revenue and result in less truck traffic and water usage than a previously approved warehouse for the site.
Despite these updates and assurances from Keel Infrastructure COO Liam Wilson, who vowed to craft a community benefit agreement, final approval for the project remains pending a legal challenge. Camelot for Children, a nearby nonprofit, filed an appeal seeking to overturn the city's zoning decision that the data center is a by-right use for the site. The zoning hearing was postponed, and planning commissioners did not vote on the plans, expressing continued concerns about noise, air quality, and the lack of significant sustainable components like solar panels, as noted by Commissioner Erich Hornung. Area residents, including Matt Chua, also voiced opposition, citing risks to hundreds of residents for limited job creation.
Developers plan to return to the planning commission in October for final approval, contingent on the outcome of the zoning appeal. Keel Infrastructure and Quantm Group plan to hold community forums and town halls before the October meeting to address residents' concerns.